Melanoma Taught Me Faith, Gratitude and That Nothing Is Permanent

I was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma at 31, faced recurrence and now share my journey to raise awareness.

My melanoma journey began in the summer of 2018, though I didn't realize it at the time. While at the beach, I noticed a new mole on my thigh. I didn't think much of it and forgot about it until eight months later, in March 2019. Curious about the new mole, I Googled its significance and learned that new or changing moles should be checked by a dermatologist. Trusting my gut, I made an appointment.

At the dermatologist's office, the doctor reassured me that it was likely nothing but decided to biopsy the mole just to be safe. Two days later, I received a call asking me to come in. My heart sank, knowing that bad news was likely. The diagnosis was melanoma, and at 31 years old, I found myself grappling with the reality of cancer. I was quickly referred to a surgeon, who scheduled scans and surgery to remove the cancer and test nearby lymph nodes.

Our hope was that the cancer hadn't spread beyond my leg, but a week after surgery, I learned it had reached my lymph nodes, advancing to stage 3. The fear and uncertainty were overwhelming, but I knew I needed to stay positive. I made a pact with myself to maintain a normal life, enjoy the things I loved and strengthen my faith in God. Prayer became my solace and I developed a deep personal relationship with God.

After surgery, I was declared cancer-free but underwent a year of immunotherapy to prevent recurrence. This treatment, a monthly infusion to boost my immune system, was challenging but manageable. By May 2020, I completed immunotherapy and began regular scans every three months.

In May 2023, a routine ultrasound revealed an enlarged lymph node in my groin. I had a gut feeling that melanoma was back. Tests confirmed a recurrence, but thankfully, it hadn't spread beyond the lymph nodes. I underwent another surgery to remove 17 lymph nodes, one of which was positive for melanoma. Despite the physical challenges, including developing lymphedema and cellulitis, I remained thankful and optimistic.

I started targeted therapy to prevent further recurrence, but the side effects were severe, and I had to stop after two months. This was a difficult period, but I continued to share my story to raise awareness about melanoma. Nearly 90% of cutaneous melanoma cases are linked to UV exposure from the sun or tanning beds.

Currently, I'm not undergoing any treatment but have regular scans and blood work to monitor my health. Although melanoma has brought many challenges, it has also taught me valuable life lessons and strengthened my faith in God. I am reminded daily of God's presence and am grateful for everything He has done in my life.

In closing, I want to leave you with one last thought: “Nothing is permanent. When you’re in the thick of a really bad time, whether it be cancer treatment or any other challenge, it can be hard to remember that this, too, shall pass. You learn the most about yourself when life really sucks. Enjoy the good times when they come, and when the bad times come, know that it won’t be forever.”

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